Sports (and Sports Injuries) Invented in Oregon

12 Mar Sports (and Sports Injuries) Invented in Oregon

Whether you’re a native Oregonian or a transplant (we won’t tell), there’s a good chance one of the reasons you love Oregon is for the year-round sports. Mend Clinic treats a lot of sports injuries, and the team hears a lot of stories. Some of the best stories (or worst, depending on which side of the storytelling you’re on) stems from homegrown sports.

Oregon Sports and Sports Injuries

You’re probably well aware of the Bill Bowerman legacy. The founder of Blue Ribbon Sports, which eventually became Nike, was known for his innovative approach to running and track. It all started in the 50s when Bowerman was a coach in Eugene, and he thought of the spike-less track shoe. The iconic waffle iron design is still used today, and not just in your favorite Nikes. If it wasn’t for him, the running injuries treated at urgent care might look a lot nastier. It’s already painful enough taking a spill on your sprint or dealing with running-related strains and sprains without also adding a spike laceration into the mix.

The “Fosbury Flop” was also invented in Oregon. You may not know about this unique move unless you’re into the high jump, but it was revolutionary in 1968. The technique of flipping back-first over the high jump bar was invented by Dick Fosbury of Medford. This flop approach landed him a Summer Olympics gold medal as well as two NCAA titles at OSU. Of course, sports injuries can happen in the high jump even for floppers. Urgent care clinics see an increase in these injuries during the spring and summer months. High jumpers still use the Fosbury Flop today. Fosbury himself was recently featured in the ESPN and Adidas-produced “Pioneers” film series.

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Finally, there’s the hacky sack, the beloved “sport” of hippies around the world. These tiny bean bags began in Oregon when locals Mike Marshall and John Stalberger were trying to figure out a new and fun way to exercise in 1972. Originally, the hacky sack was leather and square, but in 1974 it had evolved into the model we love today. It’s a relatively safe sport, but nothing is foolproof. If you have a hacky sack injury, or any sports injury, know that Mend Clinic is open seven days per week to meet your needs.